Prince William and Princess Kate's staff member has issued his first statement since quitting a major role.
The Prince and Princess of Wales's royal equerry, Rob Dixon, has shared an emotional message to LinkedIn as he bids farewell to the role.
The commander was first appointed to the household in 2020 when William and Kate were the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.
Dixon continued in his role when William and Kate became the Prince and Princess of Wales in 2022.
Prince William and Princess Kate's staff member issues first statement since quitting major role
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After four years as William and Kate's right-hand man, he is now set to return to his post in the Royal Navy
Sharing a moving post to his LinkedIn account this morning as he prepares to step down as equerry, the officer thanked Prince William for the "incredible opportunity" and reinforced his continuing commitment to "Team Wales".
He accompanied his post with some touching images from his time in the role, such as laughing alongside the Princess of Wales during her Christmas event in 2022 and joining Prince William and Prince George for the Platinum Jubilee.
Dixon wrote: "It’s time to move on… I’ve had the most incredible opportunity to serve in a role that not only challenged me, but allowed me to grow, to learn, and to make meaningful contributions alongside a talented and passionate team.
Princess Kate and Rob Dixon photographed at the Christmas concert in 2022
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"I am immensely grateful for the support, collaboration, and friendships formed during these last 4 years.
"It’s been a remarkable journey and I look forward to carrying the skills and insights I’ve gained into my next appointments."
He went on to reflect on the momentous events he had been involved in during his role, including the Platinum Jubilee, King Charles's Coronation and the funerals of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip.
Dixon continued: "There were engagements when our whole Household was involved, every single person, and there were times when I was quite rightly standing alone, calling the shots and backing the shots I’d taken.
Princess Kate laughing with Rob Dixon and Peter Phillips in the summer of 2023
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"It’s now time to swap the top hat and tails for ‘daily working rig’ once again, and it’s the right thing to do.
"An Equerry’s role is finite, and handing over to an enthusiastic fresh set of eyes is all part of the process.
"The aim of any military role should be to serve, lead and support your team, strive for success, then move onwards and upwards; I’m excited to do just that.
"I will be forever grateful to everyone who played their part alongside me in ‘Team Cambridge’ and ‘Team Wales’, and also to my superb Principals. I wish you all fair winds and following seas."
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Prince William and Rob Dixon photographed earlier this year
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Equerries are officers from one of the three branches of the Armed Forces who are seconded to assist senior royals in the course of their duties.
This involves organising and helping out at public engagements and arranging official diaries.
The role dates back to the 16th century and aims to reinforce the Crown's role as Head of the Armed Forces. It is usually held for three years.
Dixon is heading back to the Royal Navy after four years. Prince William's new equerry will be Squadron Leader Mike Reynolds, also a trained helicopter pilot and on secondment from the Royal Air Force.
